Development of a higher-level model

ABSTRACT

A method for controlling and/or monitoring a compressor system is provided. The compressor system includes one or more compressors and one or more peripheral devices. The compressors and peripheral devices are arranged or connected in a predetermined configuration. The compressor system is controlled and/or monitored by a control/monitoring unit. The method involves creating one or more derived models on the basis of one or more initial models of the compressor system that are based on a P&amp;I diagram. The derived models take into account the operative interrelationships among the individual compressors and peripheral devices, and optionally also dynamic processes. The one or more derived models form the basis for subsequent control, monitoring, diagnosis or evaluation routines.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation of co-pending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/776,387, filed Sep. 14, 2015, which is a Section 371 ofInternational Application No. PCT/EP2014/055073, filed Mar. 14, 2014,which was published in the German language on Sep. 18, 2014, underInternational Publication No. WO 2014/140253 A1, which claims priorityunder 35 U.S.C. § 119(b) to European Patent Application No. 13159616.5,filed Mar. 15, 2013, and the disclosure of each of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The present invention relates to compressor system and to a method forcontrolling and/or monitoring a compression system comprising one ormore compressors and one or more peripheral devices, wherein thecompressor and peripheral devices are arranged or connected in apredetermined configuration, and the compressor system is controlledand/or monitored by a control/monitoring unit.

Compressor systems constitute a system composed of a multiplicity ofcompressors and peripheral devices of various types which are coupled toone another via an air pipeline network, and via a water pipelinenetwork when heat recovery systems are used. In general, compressorsystems are configured individually for the local conditions. There isno generally valid structure for compressor systems. The behavior of aconcrete compressor system may therefore only be analyzed and evaluatedin a restrictive fashion without knowledge of the structure of thecompressor system.

In order to actuate and diagnose the compressors and peripheral devicesin a compressor system, so-called superordinate station controllers areused. Such station controllers are comparable, in terms of theirfunction, with control systems in process engineering. The essentialdifference from control systems is that control systems normally operatewith a control and analysis method which has been developed specificallyfor the process to be controlled. In the specific development, knowledgeabout the structure of the process to be controlled and the operationalrelationships between the individual components of the process is coded.However, in the case of station controllers, control and analysismethods which have been developed specifically for the compressor systemto be controlled and monitored are the exception. In the normal case, astandard control and analysis method is used which is adapted to thelocal conditions merely by parameterization.

An objective of the present invention is, in contrast with the above, toprovide a method for controlling and/or monitoring a compressor systemwhich takes into account the conditions of a specific compressor systemeven more precisely. The present invention also relates to a compressorsystem which is improved with regard to the above-described problems.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a a compressor system, amethod for controlling and/or monitoring a compressor system, and acontrol and monitoring unit for controlling and/or monitoring acompressor system.

A core concept of the present invention is that, on the basis of one ormore output models M₁, M₂, . . . of the compressor system, wherein theoutput models are based on, for example, a Process and Instrumentation(“P&I”) diagram, if appropriate including the specialization of thecompressors and of the peripheral devices, one or more derived models{tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . are produced whichtake into account operational relationships between the individualcompressors and peripheral devices and, if appropriate, also dynamicprocesses. The one or more derived models {tilde over (M)}_(a), {tildeover (M)}_(b), . . . are used as the basis for the subsequent control,monitoring, diagnostic or evaluation routines.

In the sense of the present invention, a derived model may be obtained,for example, from precisely one output model. It is, however, alsopossible for one derived model to be obtained from two or more outputmodels or for two or more derived models to be produced which are basedon a single output model. Finally, it is possible for two or morederived models to be obtained from two or more output models.

The derived model {tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . maybe a final model which is used directly in adjacent control, monitoring,diagnostic or evaluation routines and is used as the basis for thesecontrol, monitoring, diagnostic or evaluation routines. However,thederived model {tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . may bealso be an intermediate model from which the final model is developed inone or more steps and is ultimately used in subsequent control,monitoring, diagnostic or evaluation routines, or which is used as thebasis for these control, monitoring, diagnostic or evaluation routines.

A control, monitoring, diagnostic or evaluation routine is to beunderstood as meaning quite generally different control functions,monitoring functions, diagnostic functions or evaluation functions.

Insofar as it is stated that the compressors and peripheral devices arearranged or connected in a predetermined configuration, this is to beunderstood as also including a plurality of changing states, for examplean alternative configuration which may be achieved by switching over avalve or a switch. A predetermined configuration is, to this extent, thequantity of all the conceivable configurations which the compressorsystem may assume in different operating states.

The configuration in the form of a P&I diagram is also to be understoodas being included, and, to this extent, acquires the operationalrelationships between the compressors and peripheral devices fromdifferent viewpoints and in different domains, wherein the acquisitionof the operational relationships in one domain or from one view point isself-evidently sufficient for the implementation of the presentinvention. Possible domains or possible viewpoints include, by way ofexample but not exclusively, the operational relationships in terms ofcompressed air technology which may be represented in a P&I diagram inthe narrower sense, in particular a compressed air P&I diagram, theheat-recovery-related operational relationships which may be representedin a P&I diagram in the narrower sense, in particular in a heat recoveryP&I diagram, the cooling-water-circuit-related operational relationshipswhich may be represented in a P&I diagram in the narrower sense, inparticular in a cooling water circuit P&I diagram, and thepower-supply-related operational relationships which may be representedin an electrical circuit diagram. Furthermore, a P&I diagram in thesense of the present invention may be limited in an abstract form to theunderlying operational relationships from one point of view/from onedomain, and to this extent does not need to include all the details of apossibly otherwise customary P&I diagram. Instead of the term P&Idiagram, it is also possible to understand in this regard a graphicrepresentation of the operational relationships from a specific point ofview/in a specific domain, such as, for example, a graphicrepresentation of the operational relationships in terms of compressedair technology or a graphic representation of the heat-recovery-relatedoperational relationships. It involves, in this regard, a flow chartwhich represents the flow of energy and/or operating mechanism and/orcompressed air between the individual compressors and the individualperipheral devices.

In one possible embodiment, the derived model {tilde over (M)}_(a),{tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . may be an aspect-specific model AM which isproduced from the one or more output models M₁, M₂, . . . or from one ormore intermediate models M₁′, M₂′, AAM₁, AAM2 by using anaspect-specific analysis algorithm. An aspect-specific model is intendedto be a model which clarifies the compressor system with respect to aconcrete question. Conceivable aspects which may give rise to anaspect-specific model are, by way of example but not exhaustively:moisture, pressure loss, quality of compressed air, pressure quality,pressure behavior, energy efficiency, energy take-up, energy balance,temperatures, volume flows/mass flows, costs, reserve margin and/orreliability.

In one preferred embodiment of the method according to the presentinvention, the information about the aspect-specific behavior of acompressor or of a peripheral device is contained in one or morecomponent models KM to be taken into account in the aspect output modelAAM and/or in the analysis algorithm itself.

In the aspect-specific analysis algorithms, it is encoded how the outputmodels are to be interpreted with respect to an aspect (or a pluralityof aspects). Likewise, the aspect-specific analysis algorithms containknowledge about the dynamic behavior of compressors and/or peripheraldevices with respect to the aspect under consideration (the aspectsunder consideration). Optionally, the aspect-specific analysis algorithmuses aspect-specific component models in order to produce the derivedmodels.

In one preferred embodiment of the method according to the presentinvention, there is provision that an assigned analysis algorithm isprovided for each aspect-specific model AM which is to be produced. Ananalysis algorithm is normally developed specifically for a questionwhich is to be answered with the aspect-specific model. When there arerelated questions, it may be the case in this context that the sameanalysis algorithm, or only a slightly modified one, comes to be usedfor the application. However, as already mentioned, a concrete analysisalgorithm is assigned to each aspect-specific question or eachaspect-specific model.

Other derived models, in particular intermediate models, may also bedeveloped from analysis algorithms which are the same or similar to thederived aspect-specific analysis algorithms in individual cases.

In one preferred embodiment, there may be provision that the derivedmodel {tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . regardless ofwhether it is a final model or an intermediate model—is stored in thecontrol/monitoring unit or stored externally at the prompting of thecontrol/monitoring unit.

In one possible embodiment, there may be provision that the derivedmodel or models {tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . arederived and/or stored and/or applied in an external system. In thiscase, in this respect, one or more activities are carried out inconjunction with the derived models {tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over(M)}_(b), . . . externally and, if appropriate, not under the direct orindirect control of the control/monitoring unit.

In concrete terms, the following sequence would be conceivable:

-   -   1. Operating parameters are acquired in the compressor system        and stored in the control/monitoring unit.    -   2. These operating parameters are evaluated by applying        corresponding models on an external server. The server is not a        component of the control/monitoring unit and not a component of        the compressor system either.    -   3. The method step specified under 2 is also understood to be an        inventive method for controlling and/or monitoring a compressor        system even though it is not itself carried out within the        compressor system and even though the control/monitoring unit is        not involved therein.    -   4. The result of the abovementioned monitoring/evaluation method        may be, for example:        -   a) the calculation of a subsequent maintenance deadline;            and/or        -   b) optimization of closed-loop control or open-loop control            parameters (for example the calculation of a reduced            required pressure).    -   5. With the results specified under 4, it is then possible:        -   a) for (automatic) maintenance planning to be carried out by            a compressor system manufacturer or compressor system            operator in order to increase the availability of the            compressor system through timely maintenance; and/or        -   b for the energy efficiency of the compressed air generation            to be improved by the reparameterization (manually or            automatically) of the compressor system control to the            calculated optimum required pressure.

In one preferred embodiment, there may be provision that the derivedmodel or models {tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . arechecked continuously or cyclically or in an event-based fashion and, ifappropriate, adapted automatically. For example, during operation of thecompressor system an improved data basis may be obtained, with theresult that the improved data basis may be the reason for adapting thederived model or models.

In a further optional embodiment, there may be provision that when theoutput model M₁, M₂, . . . changes or when one or more component modelsKM change, for example since structural changes are made to thecompressor system, the derived model or models are also adapted.

In one possible embodiment, different domain-specific output models maybe taken into account for the production of one or more derived models,whether intermediate models or end models. In particular,compressor-air-specific output models, power-supply-specific outputmodels, output models which are related to the cooling water circuit oroutput models which are related to the recovery of heat may beconsidered domain-specific output models, and in this respect, two ormore models of different domains may be combined or taken into account.It is also possible to acquire and model interactions between thedifferent domains.

In one possible embodiment of the present invention, an intermediatemodel is considered as a derived model, the intermediate model alsotaking into account, in contrast with the output model or models, adynamic behavior or different operating states of the compressor system.

An alternative or additional intermediate model which, if necessary, maybe positioned hierarchically before or after the intermediate modeldiscussed above, consists in the intermediate model being adapted and,if appropriate, simplified in an aspect-specific fashion compared to oneor more output models or compared to one or more intermediate models.If, for example, the question as to which compressor is respectivelyconnected to a downstream drier is investigated in a compressor system,filters which are arranged intermediately do not play any role and maybe disregarded in an intermediate model from the viewpoint of thisquestion with the result that a simplified intermediate model may bedefined.

In one preferred embodiment, there may be provision that the outputmodel or models M₁, M₂ is/are used as the basis for the concretelyprovided configuration of the compressor system in the form of a P&Idiagram which is input by an editor, in particular, after the productionof the compressor system.

Although the operational relationships in a P&I diagram are illustratedgraphically, it is not absolutely necessary to process or input them ina graphic form by the editor even though this constitutes a possibleembodiment of the present invention. Instead, it is also possible toinput the operational relationships entirely or partially in text by theeditor. Finally, other forms of input are also conceivable, for examplea voice input or else an input by automatic image recognition. Theeditor may in this respect also be considered as an input interface.

The editor and/or the storage section may also be a component of thecontrol/monitoring system or integrated therein.

While it is, in theory, preferred to input the concretely providedconfiguration in the form of a P&I diagram only after the production ofa compressor system, it is, however, also conceivable to perform thisinputting even before the production or during the production of thecompressor system insofar as the concretely provided configuration orthe concretely provided operational relationship has already beendefined.

A precondition for the production of the output models is knowledge ofthe operational relationships in the compressor system. It is notabsolutely necessary for the compressor system to exist. For example,one or more output models or one P&I diagram or a plurality ofdomain-specific P&I diagrams may be produced already during the planningof a compressor system. It is also not necessary for the output modelsto be produced immediately or the P&I diagrams to be input immediatelywhen the structure of the compressor system is fixed. The output modelsand the P&I diagrams must be defined or produced at the latest when theP&I diagrams or the output models are to be used.

It is self-evident that the method according to the present inventionmay also be carried out repeatedly, for example when something haschanged in the concretely provided configuration, that is to say in thereal structure of the compressor system or when an error has occurred inthe previous inputting of the P&I diagram.

The control/monitoring unit may be embodied as a unit which performsboth controlling and monitoring functions or else only controlling oronly monitoring functions.

One embodiment of the method provides that after the inputting of theconcretely provided configuration, the concretely provided configurationis stored at the prompting of the control/monitoring unit.

In one possible optional embodiment, the inputting of the P&I diagramcomprises exclusively the configuration or connection of the compressorsand peripheral devices which are already known to the control/monitoringunit. In this context, the existence of a specific compressor or of aspecific peripheral device may as such already be known to thecontrol/monitoring unit or, in addition to the mere existence ofspecific compressors or specific peripheral devices, the concretespecification of the compressors and peripheral devices which arepresent may already be known to the control/monitoring unit. In onealternative, likewise optional, embodiment of the method, the inputtingof the P&I diagram also comprises, in addition to the inputting of theconfiguration or connection of the compressors and peripheral devices,the concrete specification of the compressors and peripheral deviceswhich are present.

In one particularly preferred embodiment of the method, the inputting ofthe P&I diagram is performed on the user side. Since compressors and/orperipheral devices from different manufacturers are often combined withone another on the user side in order to produce a concrete compressorsystem, the acquisition of the operational relationships on the userside is a preferred possible embodiment.

In one possible development of the method according to the presentinvention, there may be provision that when the P&I diagram is input bythe editor, the compressors and peripheral devices are predefined or maybe selected as corresponding graphic symbols. Likewise, in one possibleembodiment there may be provision that when the P&I diagram is input bythe editor, the connections of the compressors and of the peripheraldevices are predefined or may be selected as corresponding graphicsymbols.

Furthermore, there may be provision that when the P&I diagram is inputby the editor, various possible specifications of the compressors and/orof the peripheral devices are predefined or may be selected.

In one possible embodiment there may be provision that the presence ofone or more compressors and one or more peripheral devices and/or thespecification of some or of all of the compressors and/or of some or ofall the peripheral devices is transferred from the outside, is input inparticular by an upload of corresponding information, for example as anupload of a file which is made available by the manufacturer of thesystem.

One possible embodiment of the present invention also provides that someor all of the compressors and/or peripheral devices sign onautomatically at the control/monitoring unit and also preferablyautomatically transfer their specification. This signing-on or transfermay occur in a line-bound fashion, in particular wire-bound orglass-fiber-bound or by radio waves.

As an alternative to inputting a P&I diagram into the control/monitoringunit by an editor, knowledge about the operational relationships mayalso be input into the control/monitoring unit in other ways, such as:

-   -   importing a description/a model into the control/monitoring        unit;    -   automatic detection and, if appropriate, acquisition of the        specification of some or all of the compressors or of some or        all of the peripheral devices of a compressor system. It is        conceivable, for example, that the control/monitoring unit        integrates the compressors and/or peripheral devices according        to their properties by corresponding communication.        Alternatively, the compressors and/or peripheral devices sign on        at the control/monitoring unit, preferably by giving their        specification; and    -   Finally, automatic detection of parts of the compressor system,        for example by operator parameter analysis and/or by imaging        detection systems is also possible.

This may be directed to the following partial detection:

-   -   detection of the connection of compressors and/or peripheral        devices,    -   detection of compressors and/or peripheral devices, and/or    -   tuning of the model parameters.

In one possible concrete embodiment of the method according to thepresent invention, the selection of graphic symbols for representingcompressors or peripheral devices and/or the selection of concretespecifications and/or the selection of specific connections occur bymarking in a proposal list, wherein the selected object or the selectedinformation may subsequently be transmitted into the P&I diagram whichis to be produced in the editor. However, this is a very concrete,possible embodiment. Numerous other modifications are possible, inparticular in relation to an input which is partially or exclusivelytextual, an input by voice recognition or an input by image recognition.

As already mentioned, there may be provision according to the presentinvention that an operational relationship or a configuration is inputin the form of a P&I diagram for just one domain/one viewpoint. In onepossible embodiment, respective P&I diagrams or respectiveconfigurations or operational relationships are input for two or moredifferent domains/viewpoints, for example:

-   -   a compressed air P&I diagram;    -   a heat recovery P&I diagram;    -   a cooling-circuit-related P&I diagram; and/or    -   a power-supply-related operational relationship, in particular        an electrical circuit diagram.

Quite generally it is to be noted that the control/monitoring unit maybe implemented in one or more servers, which have an operativeconnection to one another, or in a virtual computer.

If this path is adopted; i.e. an aspect-specific output model isdefined, it is preferably possible to produce an aspect-specific modelby using an aspect-specific analysis algorithm, and in the selectedexample, it is therefore possible to answer the question as to whichdrier may be supplied by which compressor on the basis of theaspect-specific output model AAM in which, for example, the filters havebeen disregarded as peripheral devices which are not to be taken intoaccount in the concrete question.

In one possibly alternative or additional embodiment of the methodaccording to the present invention, a method for monitoring a compressorsystem comprising one or more compressors and one or more peripheraldevices is proposed, wherein the compressors and peripheral devices arearranged or connected in a predetermined configuration; wherein thecompressor system is controlled and/or monitored by a control/monitoringunit; wherein the method produces a prediction for the next maintenancedeadline of the compressor system or of individual compressors orindividual peripheral devices; wherein after the production of thecompressor system, the concretely provided configuration is input in theform of a P&I diagram by an editor (23) and this inputting forms thebasis for one or more output models (M1, M2, . . . ); wherein on thebasis of the output models (M1, M2, . . . ), one or more derived models({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ) are produced whichtake into account operational relationships between the individualcompressors (11, 12, 13) and the peripheral devices (14 to 21) and, ifappropriate, also dynamic processes; and wherein a prediction for thenext maintenance deadline is produced taking into account standardizedoperational data of the compressor system using the derived model ormodels {tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ).

In a possibly alternative or additional embodiment of the methodaccording to the present invention, a method for monitoring a compressorsystem comprising one or more compressors and one or more peripheraldevices is furthermore proposed, wherein the compressors and peripheraldevices are arranged or connected in a predetermined configuration;wherein the compressor system is controlled and/or monitored by acontrol/monitoring unit; wherein the method is configured as adiagnostic method for diagnosing the compressor system or individualcompressors or individual peripheral devices; wherein after theproduction of the compressor system, the concretely providedconfiguration is input in the form of a P&I diagram by an editor (23)and this inputting forms the basis for one or more output models (M1,M2, . . . ); wherein on the basis of the output models (M1, M2, . . . ),one or more derived models ({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b),. . . ) are produced which take into account operational relationshipsbetween the individual compressors (11, 12, 13) and the peripheraldevices (14 to 21) and, if appropriate, also dynamic processes; andwherein a fault diagnosis is carried out taking into accountstandardized operational data of the compressor system using the derivedmodel or models ({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . )

Furthermore, the present invention also relates to a compressor systemcomprising one or more compressors and one or more peripheral devicesand a control/monitoring unit, wherein the compressors and peripheraldevices are arranged or connected in a predetermined configuration; andwherein the compressor system is controlled and/or monitored by acontrol/monitoring unit which is defined in that the control/monitoringunit is embodied and configured in such a way that, in the case ofcontrol, monitoring diagnostic or evaluation routines, it accesses oneor more derived models ({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . .. ) of the compressor system, which model or models is/are produced onthe basis of one or more output models M₁, M₂, . . . of the compressorsystem, and also takes into account operational relationships betweenthe individual compressors and the peripheral devices as well as, ifappropriate, also dynamic processes.

In one possible development of the compressor system there may beprovision that the control/monitoring unit ensures that the derivedmodel or models {tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . arestored.

In a further possible embodiment, the control/monitoring unit may beembodied in such a way that it is implemented in one or more serverswhich have an operative connection to one another, or in a virtualcomputer.

Finally, in one possible embodiment, there may also be provision thatthe control/monitoring unit also comprises an editor, the editor isdesigned and intended to input the concretely provided configuration ofthe compressor system in the form of a P&I diagram, and the editor alsohas an operative connection to the control/monitoring unit in such a waythat the input P&I diagram is transmitted to the control/monitoring unitand serves there as an output basis for producing one or more outputmodels M₁, M₂, . . . .

Finally, a control/monitoring unit for controlling and/or monitoring acompressor system comprising one or more compressors and one or moreperipheral devices is also proposed, wherein the compressors andperipheral devices are arranged or connected in a predeterminedconfiguration, and the control/monitoring unit brings about the controland/or monitoring of the compressor system; and wherein, on the basis ofone or more output models M₁, M₂, . . . of the compressor system, whichmodel/models is/are based for example on a P&I diagram, if appropriateincluding the specification of the compressors and of the peripheraldevices, one or more derived models are produced which take into accountoperational relationships between the individual compressors andperipheral devices, and if appropriate also dynamic processes, and inthat the one or more derived models {tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over(M)}_(b), . . . form the basis for subsequent control, monitoring,diagnostic or evaluation routines.

Preferably the compressor system may also comprise an editor which isdesigned and intended to input the concretely provided configuration inthe form of a P&I diagram, and which is operatively connected to thecontrol/monitoring unit in such a way that the input P&I diagram istransmitted to the control/monitoring unit in order to use it as thebasis for subsequent control, monitoring, diagnostic or evaluationroutines.

In one concrete embodiment, there may be provision that thecontrol/monitoring unit ensures that the input P&I diagram or diagramsare stored. Furthermore, in one possible embodiment there may beprovision that specifications of the compressors or peripheral deviceswhich are used in the compressor system are stored in thecontrol/monitoring unit in such a way that the inputting of the P&Idiagram comprises exclusively the configuration and/or connection of thecompressors and peripheral devices. Alternatively, it is, however, alsopossible to provide, as already described with reference to the method,that when the P&I diagram is input not only the configuration orconnection of the compressors and peripheral devices is defined, butalso it is also firstly defined whether one or more compressors and oneor more peripheral devices are at all present and/or preferablyspecifications of at least a portion of the compressors or peripheraldevices are also input.

In one possible embodiment, there may be provision that thecontrol/monitoring unit makes available in a storage section lists ofspecifications of possible compressors or of peripheral devices and/orgraphic symbols for representing compressors which are used orperipheral devices which are used and/or graphic symbols forrepresenting possible connections for selection by producing a P&Idiagram in the editor. The selection of the corresponding information orgraphic symbols may occur by various possible input possibilities suchas, for example, under cursor control, mouse control, text control,voice control etc. In the same way, the P&I diagram may be produced inthe editor on the basis of the selected symbols and/or information.

It is self-evident that the aspects, advantageous embodiments andadvantages discussed with regard to the method according to the presentinvention may also be transferred, in an appropriately adapted manner,to the compressor system and the control/monitoring unit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description ofthe present invention, will be better understood when read inconjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustratingthe present invention, there are shown in the drawings embodiments whichare presently preferred. It should be understood, however, that thepresent invention is not limited to the precise arrangements andinstrumentalities shown.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 shows a purely exemplary configuration of a real compressorsystem which interacts with a control/monitoring unit according to anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 shows a modeling of the compressor system according to FIG. 1according to the prior art;

FIG. 3 shows an output model which represents the compressor system inits concretely provided configuration in the form of a P&I diagram;

FIG. 4 shows a model M′ which is derived from the P&I diagram accordingto FIG. 3 as an output model and takes into account different operatingstates;

FIG. 5 shows a model which is derived from the P&I diagram according toFIG. 3 as an output model and may be considered to be a simplifiedaspect-specific output model AAM;

FIG. 6 shows an aspect-specific model AM which has been developed fromthe aspect-specific output model AAM according to FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 shows an overview of the possible paths for the development of anaspect-specific model or an aspect-specific final model from an outputmodel;

FIG. 8 shows a schematic overview of the individual method steps and theadvantages which may be achieved therewith when, on the one hand, theoperational relationships between the compressors and peripheral devicesof a compressor system in the form of a P&I diagram are taken intoaccount as a basis for one or more output models and, on the other hand,derived models are developed from these output models;

FIG. 9 shows an example of an optimization routine in which the requiredpressure p_(req) of a compressor system is optimized using models;

FIG. 10 shows an example illustrating how the effective buffer volume ofa compressor system may be determined by applying a quantitative modelof a compressor system;

FIG. 11 shows an aspect-specific output model AAM which is derived fromthe design according to FIG. 10; and

FIG. 12 shows the change in the pressure radiant at the time of theswitching of a compressor.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary design of a compressor system according to thepresent invention. The exemplary compressor system comprises threecompressors 11, 12, 13 which are arranged serially with respect to oneanother. Each compressor 11, 12, 13 may be unambiguously assigned afilter 14, 15, 16, each of which is arranged downstream of the assignedcompressor 11, 12, 13. Two driers 19, 20 are arranged downstream of thefilters 14, 15, 16. The compressed air downstream of the first filter 14is intended always to flow via the first drier 19. The compressed airdownstream of the second filter 15 may be directed via two valves 17, 18either via the first drier 19 or via the second drier 20. The two valves17, 18 are connected or actuated in such a way that they are neveropened simultaneously. That is, when the first valve 17 is opened, thesecond valve 18 remains closed, and when the second valve 18 is opened,the first valve 17 remains closed.

A compressed air accumulator 21 is arranged downstream of the two driers19, 20. Arranged on the output side of the compressed air accumulator 21is also a pressure sensor 26 for acquiring the operating pressure there.

In order to control and/or monitor the compressor system, acontrol/monitoring unit 22 is provided which has an operative connectionto the compressors 11, 12, 13 and the filters 14, 15, 16, the valves 17,18, the driers 19, 20, the compressed air accumulator 21 and thepressure sensor 26. The filters 14, 15, 16, the valves 17, 18, thedriers 19, 20, the compressed air accumulator 21 and the pressure sensor26 form peripheral devices of the compressor system. Thecontrol/monitoring unit 22 also has an operative connection to a memorysection 24 and to an editor 23. The control/monitoring unit 22 mayperform control functions, monitoring functions or control andmonitoring functions. Monitoring is to be understood as meaning any formof evaluation, that is to say not only monitoring for malfunctions,unusual operating states, alarm situations etc., but also diagnostics,in particular in the case of an already present fault message, anevaluation with respect to optimization or an evaluation for predictingthe next maintenance deadline (predictive maintenance).

In order to perform one or more of these functions, models of theoperational relationships of the compressors 11, 12, 13 and of theperipheral devices 14 to 21 are to be acquired and made accessible tothe control/monitoring unit 22. For this purpose, preferably, on the onehand, the concretely provided configuration in the form of a P&I diagramis input by an editor 23 which has an operative connection to thecontrol/monitoring unit 22. On the other hand, one or more output modelsM₁, M₂ . . . are produced by the control/monitoring unit 22 orexternally from this input configuration which encodes the operationalrelationship between the compressors 11, 12, 13 and the peripheraldevice 14 to 21, and one or more derived models {tilde over (M)}_(a),{tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . , which take into account operationalrelationships between the individual compressors 11, 12, 13 andperipheral devices 14 to 21, are developed based on these output modelsM₁, M₂, . . . .

In a delimitation with respect to the above, in the prior art, asillustrated with respect to FIG. 2, the operational relationship betweenthe individual compressors 11, 12, 13 and the peripheral devices 14 to21 (in the present example, the filters 14, 15, 16, the driers 19, 20and the valves 17, 18 and the compressed air accumulator 21) are notconcretely taken into account. In the methods for controlling and/ormonitoring a compressor system according to the prior art, theperipheral devices of the compressed air conditioning system and theconnection of these peripheral devices are, from a structural viewpoint,nothing other than a black box, which in this respect does notappropriately map the compressor system.

The present invention therefore provides that, in order to produce amodel of the compressor system, in particular after the production ofthe compressor system, the concretely provided configuration in the formof a P&I diagram is input by the already mentioned editor 23. A P&Idiagram which is representative of the compressor system according toFIG. 1 is represented in FIG. 3. It is to be taken into account thatmany variants are conceivable for the inputting of this P&I diagram. Theinputting of the P&I diagram is intended to comprise at least the stepof defining the operational relationships between the compressors 11,12, 13 and the peripheral devices 14 to 21, but may preferably alsocomprise a preliminary step, specifically the acquisition of thepresence of the compressors 11, 12, 13 and the individual peripheraldevices 14 to 21, preferably also a further third step, specifically theinputting of the specifications of the compressors 11, 12, 13 and of theperipheral devices 14 to 21. It is conceivable that the acquisition ofthe presence, of the operational relationships and of the specificationsoccurs in different ways, for example the operational relationships areinput graphically by the editor 23, and the other information istransferred in other ways to the control/monitoring unit 22, for exampleby an upload of a file which is, for example, made available by thesystem manufacturer. A wide variety of variants are also conceivable forthe inputting via the editor 23, as has already been explained in theintroductory part of the description.

In FIG. 4, a derived model M′ is illustrated which already models andtakes into account different possible operating states of the outputmodel according to FIG. 3 which is given as a P&I diagram. While themodel according to FIG. 3 does not yet contain information as to whichdrier 19, 20 is supplied by which compressor 11, 12, 13, the model M′illustrated in FIG. 4 takes into account the different conditions inthat it relates to the differentiation between cases: “if the firstvalve 17 and second valve 18 are closed, then . . . otherwise . . . ”.V1 denotes here the first valve 17, and V2 the second valve 18. T1denotes the first drier 19 and T2 denotes the second drier 20, K1denotes the first compressor 11, K2 denotes the second compressor 12,and K13 denotes the third compressor 13.

FIG. 5 shows a model which is derived from the P&I diagram according toFIG. 3 as an output model and which may be considered as a simplifiedaspect-specific output model AAM. If, for example, the aspect as towhich drier 19, 20 may be supplied by which compressor 11, 12, 13 isinvestigated within the domain of compressed air, in order on this basisto develop an aspect-specific model AM which clarifies this question,access is to made to an assigned analysis algorithm and, if appropriate,to component models. The assigned analysis algorithm may be stored at acorresponding location, in particular may be stored in the access regionof the control and monitoring unit 22. Aspect-specific component modelsmay be integrated, for example, in a database.

In the present case, it is known to the analysis algorithm that for thequestion, as to which drier 19, 20 is supplied by which compressor 11,12, 13, the filters 14, 15, 16 which are still present in the outputmodel according to FIG. 3 may continue to be disregarded. In thisrespect, it becomes apparent for the question of the aspect-specificoutput model AAM which is illustrated in FIG. 5 and which is simplifiedwith respect to the output model according to FIG. 3, that the filters14, 15, 16 are not considered.

In FIG. 6, the aspect-specific model AM is illustrated which is obtainedfrom the aspect-specific output model according to FIG. 5 for thequestion as to which of the driers 19, 20 is supplied by whichcompressor 11, 12, 13. In this respect, for the aspect-specific modelaccording to FIG. 6 the aspect-specific output model AAM was used, whichmay be considered as an intermediate model and is based on the outputmodel M according to FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 illustrates various paths relating to the development of anaspect-specific model AM (or an aspect-specific final model) from anoutput model M. In this respect it is conceivable to develop one or moreaspect-specific models AM directly from one or more output models M.However, it is also conceivable to develop one or more aspect-specificmodels AM from one or more output models M by intermediate models.Possible intermediate models are either models M′ or models AAM, whereinthe models M′ define in a generalizing fashion for a domain/viewpointone (or, if appropriate, more) models which define, for example,different operating states of one or more output models. Aspect-specificoutput models AAM form the basis for arriving at an aspect-specificmodel AM with the aid of an analysis algorithm and/or by taking intoaccount component models. In this respect, it is conceivable to arriveat the aspect-specific model AM via the path M, M′, AAM. However, it isalternatively also possible to arrive at the output model AM from theoutput model M via AAM and subsequently M′. Finally, it is also possibleto arrive at the aspect-specific model AM from the output model M viaM′. The example in FIG. 6 has shown that it is also possible to arriveat the aspect-specific model AM from the output model M via AAM. All ofthe models M′, AAM, AM are derived models {tilde over (M)} which aredeveloped from an output model M. However, the aspect-specific model AMmay be considered as a final model which is suitable for answeringconcrete questions and, in this respect, may be taken into account infollowing control, monitoring, diagnostic or evaluation routines.

FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic overview of the individual method stepsand the advantages which may be achieved on the basis thereof if, on theone hand, the operational relationships between the compressors andperipheral devices of a compressor system in the form of a P&I diagramare taken into account as a basis for one or more output models and, onthe other hand, derived models are developed from these output models.

In this respect, FIG. 8 illustrates the relationships between theindividual applications of models. The causal relationships which areillustrated in the figure are to be considered both cumulatively andalternatively. The basis for the processing of data is thestandardization of the data in the sense that a well-defined meaning isassigned to each individual data item.

Aspect-specific models AM, which may be used for numerous furtherapplications, may, in turn, be derived on the basis of standardized dataand the domain-specific output models M₁, M₂, . . . Concretelyconceivable applications are, for example, open-loop and closed-loopcontrol, optimization of the peripheral conditions under which aconcrete compressor system is operated, data analysis, monitoring,diagnostics, prediction of a maintenance deadline (predictivemaintenance). With respect to the application, open-loop and closed-loopcontrol may be maintained in that the operation of a compressor systemmay be improved by using models to determine and implement actuationactions for the compressors and/or peripheral devices under givenperipheral conditions (for example required pressure to be compliedwith) of the compressor system. This involves an optimization which isapplied in real time (online application).

Below, examples of the open-loop or closed-loop control of a compressorsystem will be given showing how the operational procedure of acompressor system may be improved in an aspect-related manner usingmodels and, if appropriate, derived models:

-   -   a) Aspect of energy efficiency:    -   for example, by taking into account the operational        relationships of the compressor system, that is to say of the        corresponding P&I diagram and, if appropriate, taking into        account further derived models, it is possible to ensure that        driers of a compressor system are only operated when there is a        requirement to dry compressed air. In time periods in which        there is no requirement to dry compressed air, driers are not        operated and therefore energy for the coverage of “thermal        leakages” is saved.    -   b) Aspect of quality of compressed air:    -   given knowledge of the operational relationships between the        compressors and peripheral devices of a compressor system, the        reaction to the failure of a drier may be regulated as follows:        if a drier fails, the compressors which are assigned to the        drier continue to be operated only if the delivery quantity of        the other compressors is not sufficient to cover the compressed        air requirement. Insofar as the compressed air piping allows,        the compressed air of the compressor which is assigned to the        failed drier is distributed to other driers.

Aspect-specific models may be generated as an example of the dataanalysis using models in the sense of the present invention. Basically,for most conceivable applications, quantitative or qualitativestatements may be taken into consideration not only for the dataanalysis but also for the monitoring, diagnosis, etc. For the aspect ofreliability of the compressor system, it is possible, for example, tomake a quantitative statement in the sense of a mean-time-to-failurequantification, for example 10,000 hours. A statement which clarifiesthe reliability of the compressor system can, however, also be madequalitatively, for example as follows: the reliability of the compressorsystem is evaluated as “high”, “medium”, “low”.

An example of optimization may be the determination of the parameter ofthe required pressure. This optimization may occur both as an offlineoptimization, as well as during ongoing operation of the compressorsystem. In this respect, reference is made to the illustration in FIG. 9which clarifies better the problem of the optimization of the requiredpressure to the actually necessary pressure.

A significant predefinition to a control/monitoring unit of thecompressor system is the pressure (required pressure) which is theminimum pressure which must be present at the transfer point to thecustomer's network. The control/monitoring unit 22 attempts to actuatethe compressors 11, 12, 13 in such a way that the required pressure(p_(req)) is always complied with and, at the same time, the electricalenergy which is necessary to generate compressed air is minimized. As aresult of a discontinuous rise in the compressed air consumption, thecontrol/monitoring unit may output a switch-on command to a compressor11, 12, 13 too late, and the required pressure is therefore undershot.Therefore, the required pressure (p_(req)) is basically set somewhathigher in the control/monitoring unit than the pressure which thecustomer actually requires (p_(necessary)). The distance between the setrequired pressure p_(req) and the actually necessary pressurep_(necessary) is a safety margin. However, as a result of the relativelyhigh required pressure p_(req), the energy requirement for thegeneration of compressed air increases, since the electrical power drainof the compressors 11, 12, 13 rises with the required pressure p_(req).It is therefore desirable to set the required pressure as low aspossible, but also at such a high level that in the case of jumps inconsumption the actually necessary pressure is not undershot (cf. FIG.9).

However, for the optimization of the required pressure p_(req), it notsufficient simply to analyze only the time profile of the requiredpressure pram which has been recorded in the past, since the change inthe required pressure p_(req) affects the behavior of the control of thecompressor system. This results in other switching actions which resultin a different profile of the pressure.

By applying a simulation model of the compressor system derived from theP&I diagram of the compressor system, pressure profiles recorded in thepast may be used to determine the minimum required pressure at which theactually necessary pressure is just no longer undershot. With such asimulation model (more detailed explanations on this may be found, forexample, in International Application Publication No. WO 2010/072803A1), it is also possible to determine how much energy may be saved byoptimizing the required pressure p_(req).

It is also possible to use models for monitoring compressor systems. Bycomparing the behavior of the real process with the model of the realprocess it is possible to detect if a behavior occurs in the realprocess which has not been expected in such a form (at least taking intoaccount the model). If the reality and the model diverge from oneanother, a warning or a fault is triggered, for example, an alarm signalis triggered or a notification e-mail is sent to a person responsiblefor the system.

In the field of diagnostics, the cause of an incorrect behavior may benarrowed down or determined using models. In this context, for examplevarious fault scenarios are simulated on the model and compared with thedata observed in the real process when the fault occurs. The scenariowhich corresponds best to the reality gives an indication of the causeof the fault.

By using simulations in advance, it is possible to estimate the nextdeadline for maintenance of the compressor system or the compressors orthe peripheral devices. By assuming a compressed air profile (forexample observed in the past in the compressor system in question) it isdetermined how the individual compressors and peripheral devices of acompressor system are expected to be operated or loaded in the comingweeks or months. From the profile of the operating states of thecompressors and the peripheral devices and a model for the wear of themaintenance-relevant components/operating resources it is possible todetermine the date at which the wear limit (service life) of thecomponent/operating resource will be reached.

A further example is given below as to how the effective buffer volumeof a compressor system may be determined by applying a quantitativemodel of a compressor system. This is clarified on the basis of thecompressor system as illustrated in FIG. 10. The compressor system iscomposed of the three compressors 11, 12, 13, the two driers 19, 20, thetwo filters 14, 15 and the compressed air accumulator 21. The functionof the control/monitoring unit 22 is to determine what effective buffervolume the compressed air accumulator 21 (volume possibly known) hastogether with the pipeline network (volume usually unknown). Theinformation about the effective buffer volume is used, for example, tocalculate the current compressed air consumption, from which in turn thetimes for the switching actions of compressors are derived. To determinethe effective buffer volume, the compressor system from FIG. 10 isfirstly modeled in a model which contains only the components which arerelevant for the determination of the buffer volume. A model AAM whichis simplified with respect to the buffer volume, and illustrated in FIG.11, is obtained. The driers 19, 20 and filters 14, 15 do not have anyrelevance for the calculation of the effective buffer volume and aretherefore not taken into account in the aspect-specific output modelAAM. The compressors 11, 12, 13 are, on the other hand, relevant sincethe switching actions at compressors are used to determine the effectivebuffer volume by the change in the gradient of the pressure sensor 26which is mounted on the compressed air accumulator 21. The calculationof the buffer volume is carried out by comparing the pressure gradientbefore the switching action with the pressure gradient after theswitching action. The switching action of a compressor brings about asituation, given a constant compressed air consumption, in which thepressure gradient changes, as illustrated with reference to FIG. 12. Anumber of assumptions are used as the basis for the calculation:

-   -   The “real” effective buffer volume does not change around the        time of the switching action.    -   The compressed air consumption is constant around the time of        the switching action.    -   The temperature of the compressed air in the pipeline system and        in the buffer system is constant.

Assuming that the delivery quantity of the switching compressor isknown, for example, because the delivery quantity is stored in adatabase which is accessible to the control and monitoring unit 22, theeffective buffer volume V_(eff) may be calculated from the change in thepressure gradient and the change in the delivery quantity of thecompressors ΔFAD (corresponds to delivery quantity of the individualcompressor) and the ambient pressure p_(amb):

$V_{eff} = {\frac{\Delta\;{FAD}}{\left( \frac{{dp}_{N}}{dt} \right)_{2} - \left( \frac{{dp}_{N}}{dt} \right)_{1}}*p_{amb}}$

Specifically the assumption that the compressed air consumption isconstant around the time of the switching action is, in practice, notmaintained during each switching action. It is therefore possible, andadvantageous, to offset the individual estimation of the effectivebuffer volume against preceding estimations using filtering (for exampleinformation of mean values). For example, the mean value of the last 20estimations is then used for the further processing. On the veryrealistic assumption that the change in consumption during the switchingprocess has the same probability of occurring in the upward direction asin the downward direction, the changes in consumption during thefiltering will on average cancel one another out.

The analysis according to the aspect margin will serve as an example forthe analysis of the behavior of the compressor system: a measuring ofthe reliability of a compressor system is the margin. The margin isdecisively determined by whether the compressed air consumption for thetime interval under consideration exceeded or would have exceeded theavailable delivery quantity (taking into account the compressed airstored in the compressed air accumulator) if a compressor had failed.For this analysis routine, recourse is appropriately made to theconfiguration of the compressor system which is input as a P&I diagram,and to model thus derived therefrom. The calculation of the margin maybe regarded either as analysis or as monitoring. If the analysis of themargin is used for monitoring, the operator of the compressor system mayreact and switch off compressed air consumers before the minimumnecessary pressure is undershot or may equip the compressor system withfurther compressors. The degree of overloading could be defined at thefailure of a compressor:

-   -   The worst degree of overloading: Has pressure undershooting        occurred in the period of time considered even though all the        compressors were available for the generation of compressed air?    -   A severe degree of overloading: Would pressure undershooting        have occurred if the smallest compressor had failed?    -   Medium degree of overloading: Would pressure undershooting have        occurred if a medium-sized compressor had failed?    -   Slight degree of overloading: Would pressure undershooting have        occurred if a large compressor had failed?

The analysis as to whether, for example, a severe degree of overloadingoccurred in the period of time considered occurs by virtue of the factthat a simulation of the compressed air station occurs on the basis ofthe derived models with the predefinition that the smallest compressormust not be used for the compressed air supply. The simulation itselfmay be carried out as described, for example, in InternationalApplication Publication No. WO 2010/072803 A1.

As a result of the application of derived models relating to thebehavior of the components of a compressor system, a prediction may beproduced for the next maintenance deadline for the compressor system,for individual compressors or for individual peripheral devices. Derivedmodels for simulation in advance may be used for this. With a derivedmodel for simulation in advance, it is possible to predict for a givencompressed air consumption profile how the individual compressors orperipheral devices of the compressor system will behave over time, forthe execution of a simulation in advance within the scope of the modelaccuracy taking into account the control algorithm in thecontrol/monitoring device which calculates the switching commands to thecompressors such as would be produced in the genuine compressor systemfor the given compressed air consumption profile. The running behaviorof the compressors may be derived from the switching commands to thecompressors. The running behavior of the compressors describes in whichoperating state a compressor will be located at what time.

Insofar as there is a model for the maintenance-relevant components oroperating resources which allows the state of wear of themaintenance-relevant component/operating resource to be inferred fromthe profile of the operating state of the compressor system, it ispossible to determine on the basis of the results of the simulation inadvance the time at which a state of wear which makes a maintenancemeasure necessary will be reached. For compressors today, the state ofwear of a maintenance-relevant component/operation resource isdetermined on the basis of the operating hours of a compressor. Forexample, it is necessary to change the oil every 3000 operating hours.In future, it will be possible to define the state of wear of amaintenance-relevant component/operating resource no longer onlyaccording to the operating hours, but also according to the ambientconditions/operating conditions of the compressor system. If the modelsfor simulation in advance model with sufficient accuracy effects whichare relevant for the determination of the state of wear (for examplecompression temperature, pressure in the oil separator container,particle load of the sucked-in air, ambient temperature), predictionsmay also be produced for maintenance measures if the state of wear ofthe respective component/operating resource cannot be determined solelyby the operating hours.

The accuracy of the prediction of the deadline for the next maintenancemeasure depends, of course, on to what extent the profile of thecompressed air consumption which is assumed in the simulation in advancealso occurs in reality.

An advantage of the prediction of the next maintenance deadline on thebasis of simulations in advance compared to the trivial method ofextrapolation of the operating hours is that a prediction is possibleeven if the composition of the compressed air station changes (forexample adding or removing a compressor) or reparameterization of thecompressed air control is performed (for example changing of theswitch-on and switch-off sequence of compressors).

The prediction for the execution of the next maintenance measure isrepeated regularly (for example once a day), wherein the profile,observed in the current compressor system since the execution of thelast prediction, of the compressor states for the execution of a newprediction is also used. As a result, over time, the prediction of thenext maintenance deadline becomes ever more precise since the portion ofthe wear which is observed under real conditions is used in theprediction and therefore the portion of the wear which still occurs upto the next maintenance (as uncertainty in the model) becomes eversmaller.

The method according to the present invention is, as a result, definedby the fact that individual method steps have to be carried out from theacquisition of the operating data up to the evaluation of the operatingdata for the purpose of:

-   -   performing open-loop and/or closed-loop control;    -   monitoring;    -   diagnostics;    -   optimization; and/or    -   prediction of a maintenance deadline (predictive maintenance).

The individual method steps may be defined as follows.

-   -   The operational relationships in the compressor system to be        analyzed must be defined, if appropriate input.    -   Operating data of the compressor system must be standardized in        a suitable form.    -   Based on the operational relationships of the compressor system,        one or more output models and models derived therefrom are        produced.    -   Aspect-specific models of the compressor system are used to        answer concrete questions.

The described four method steps are decoupled from one another bothspatially and chronologically. There is merely one temporal link(pre-linking/post-linking) between the method steps; i.e., some methodsteps must be executed before other method steps and the results thereofmust be made available before other method steps, which use the resultsfrom preceding method steps, may run. However, the method steps may bedistributed between different systems (but do not have to be). However,if the method steps run on different systems, there must be apossibility of an exchange of information (at least unidirectionally).

Although the present invention has been described with reference to acompressor system, that is to say for overpressure, all of theprinciples may also be transferred to a vacuum system in which pumpsinteract instead of compressors.

Furthermore, generally compressors have been mentioned here withoutdefining the particular type of the compressors. In one embodiment, allthe compressors may be configured, for example, as displacement-typecompressors, but this is not to be considered as a preferred embodimentand is not generally compulsory.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could bemade to the embodiments described above without departing from the broadinventive concept thereof. It is understood, therefore, that thisinvention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but itis intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of thepresent invention as defined by the appended claims.

We claim:
 1. A method for controlling and/or monitoring a compressorsystem comprising one or more compressors (11, 12, 13) and one or moreperipheral devices (14 to 21), the compressors (11, 12, 13) andperipheral devices (14 to 21) being arranged or connected in apredetermined configuration, the compressor system being controlledand/or monitored by a control/monitoring unit (22), the methodcomprising: producing one or more derived models ({tilde over (M)}_(a),{tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ) on the basis of one or more output models(M₁, M₂, . . . ) of the compressor system, the one or more output models(M₁, M₂, . . . ) being based on a P&I diagram, the one or more derivedmodels ({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ) taking intoaccount operational relationships between the compressors (11, 12, 13)and the peripheral devices (14 to 21), the one or more derived models({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ) forming the basisfor subsequent control, monitoring, diagnostic or evaluation routines.2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the one or more derivedmodels ({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ) is anaspect-specific model (AM) which is produced using an aspect-specificanalysis algorithm from the one or more output models (M₁, M₂, . . . )or from one or more intermediate models (M₁′, M₂′, . . . , AAM₁, AAM₂, .. . ).
 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein information aboutaspect-specific behavior of a compressor (11, 12, 13) or a peripheraldevice (14 to 21) is contained in one or more component models (KM) tobe taken into account in an aspect output model (AAM) and/or in theaspect-specific analysis algorithm itself.
 4. The method according toclaim 2, wherein an assigned analysis algorithm is provided for eachaspect-specific model AM which is to be produced.
 5. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein the one or more derived models ({tildeover (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ) is stored in thecontrol/monitoring unit (22).
 6. The method according to claim 1,wherein the one or more derived models ({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tildeover (M)}_(b), . . . ) may be derived and/or stored and/or applied in anexternal system.
 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the one ormore derived models ({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . )is checked and, if appropriate, automatically adapted continuously orcyclically or in an event-based fashion.
 8. The method according toclaim 1, wherein in the event of a change in the one or more outputmodels (M₁, M₂, . . . ) and/or in the event of a change in a componentmodel (KM), the the one or more derived models ({tilde over (M)}_(a),{tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ) is also adapted.
 9. The method accordingto claim 1, wherein different domain-specific output models (M₁, M₂, . .. ) are taken into account.
 10. The method according to claim 1, whereinthe derived model ({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . )is an intermediate model ({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), .. . ) which, in contrast with the output model or models, also takesinto account a dynamic behavior or different operating states of thecompressor system.
 11. The method according to claim 1, wherein one ormore derived models ({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . )is an intermediate model (AAM₁, AAM₂, . . . ) which, in contrast withone or more output models (M₁, M₂, . . . ) or one or more otherintermediate models (M₁′, M₂′, . . . ), is adapted in an aspect-specificfashion.
 12. The method according to claim 1, wherein the one or moreoutput models (M₁, M₂, . . . ) is used as a basis for a concretelyprovided configuration of the compressor system in the form of a P&Idiagram which is input by an editor (23) after the production of thecompressor system.
 13. The method according to claim 1, furthercomprising: after production of the compressor system, inputting aconcretely provided configuration as the P&I diagram by an editor (23),the input P&I diagram forming a basis for the one or more output models(M1, M2, . . . ); and producing a prediction for a next maintenancedeadline of the compressor system, the compressors and/or the peripheraldevices by taking into account standardized operational data of thecompressor system using the one or more derived models ({tilde over(M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ).
 14. The method according toclaim 1, wherein the method is configured as a diagnostic method fordiagnosing the compressor system, the compressors and/or the peripheraldevices, the method comprising: after production of the compressorsystem, inputting a concretely provided configuration as the P&I diagramby an editor (23), the input P&I diagram forming a basis for the one ormore output models (M1, M2, . . . ); and carrying out a fault diagnosisby taking into account standardized operational data of the compressorsystem using the one or more derived models ({tilde over (M)}_(a),{tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ).
 15. A compressor system comprising: oneor more compressors (11, 12, 13); one or more peripheral devices (14 to21); and a control/monitoring unit (22), wherein the compressors (11,12, 13) and the peripheral devices (14 to 21) are arranged or connectedin a predetermined configuration, wherein the compressor system iscontrolled and/or monitored by the control/monitoring unit (22), thecontrol/monitoring unit (22) being configured such that, in the case ofcontrol, monitoring, diagnostic or evaluation routines, thecontrol/monitoring unit (22) accesses one or more derived models ({tildeover (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ) of the compressor system,the one or more derived models ({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over(M)}_(b), . . . ) being produced on a basis of one or more output models(M1, M2, . . . ) of the compressor system, one or more derivedmodels—taking into account operational relationships between thecompressors (11, 12, 13) and the peripheral devices (14 to 21).
 16. Thecompressor system according to claim 15, wherein the control/monitoringunit (22) ensures that the one or more derived models ({tilde over(M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ) is stored.
 17. The compressorsystem according to claim 15, wherein the control/monitoring unit (22)is implemented entirely or partially in one or more servers which areoperatively connected to one another or in one or more virtualcomputers.
 18. The compressor system according to claim 15, furthercomprising an editor (23) configured to input a concretely providedconfiguration of the compressor system in the form of a P&I diagram, theeditor (23) being operatively connected to the control/monitoring unit(22) such that the input P&I diagram is transmitted to thecontrol/monitoring unit (22) and is used in the control/monitoring unit(22) as a starting basis for producing one or more output models (M₁,M₂, . . . ).
 19. A control/monitoring unit for controlling and/ormonitoring a compressor system comprising one or more compressors (11,12, 13) and one or more peripheral devices (14 to 21), the compressors(11, 12, 13) and peripheral devices (14 to 21) being arranged orconnected in a predetermined configuration, the control/monitoring unitbringing about control and/or monitoring of the compressor system,wherein one or more derived models ({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over(M)}_(b), . . . ) is produced on the basis of one or more output models(M₁, M₂, . . . ) of the compressor system, the one or more output models(M₁, M₂, . . . ) being based on a P&I diagram, the one or more derivedmodels ({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ) taking intoaccount operational relationships between the compressors (11, 12, 13)and peripheral devices (14 to 21), the one or more derived models({tilde over (M)}_(a), {tilde over (M)}_(b), . . . ) forming a basis forsubsequent control, monitoring, diagnostic or evaluation routines.